GBA Logo horizontal Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram YouTube Icon Navigation Search Icon Main Search Icon Video Play Icon Plus Icon Minus Icon Picture icon Hamburger Icon Close Icon Sorted

Community and Q&A

Stucco Balloon Frame Home Insulation

colemanleclair | Posted in Energy Efficiency and Durability on

Hello

I am currently renovating the interior of a 1900 balloon home in the Chicago area that was stuccoed in the 1950’s and have a lot of questions about insulation. 

Next year, possibly two, I plan on removing the stucco to install a WRB and replace the original windows. The stucco is in not good shape with quite a few cracks and the windows sills and trim are deteriorating.

The exterior wall assembly is 2×4 studs, 1×6 tongue and groove boards, a heavy tar paper, wire mesh and then stucco.  The walls are currently uninsulated and plan on using dense packed cellulose. I also will be doing as much interior air sealing as possible.

Should I dense pack the walls from the inside prior to removing the stucco or wait until the stucco is removed and insulate from the outside? I worry about the risk of moisture getting trapped, especially if for some unforeseen reason the stucco cannot be removed for a longer period of time.

Or would a different insulation avoid this concern all together? 

Last question. I need to add to the depth of the studs to meet the insulation codes. Instead of adding the needed depth with just wood, I would like to use the Bonfig wall method.  Which is the best foam board for that application?

Any input is much appreciated.

Thank you
Coley

GBA Prime

Join the leading community of building science experts

Become a GBA Prime member and get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

Replies

Log in or create an account to post an answer.

Community

Recent Questions and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |